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Highlands Today

England To Leave EDC Dec. 31.

Louise England

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By Bill Rogers | Highlands Today

Published: August 13, 2008

SEBRING - The Highlands County Economic Development Commission/Industrial Development Authority is going to be looking for a new executive director.

Louise England, who has been in the position for seven years, announced her resignation at the end of Wednesday's EDC board meeting. It is effective Dec. 31, 2008.

In a letter distributed to the board, she thanked the members for their "unfailing support" of her work for the organization.

"It is now time for me to focus my efforts on other endeavors," England said in the letter. "I hope to find employment that is as meaningful and fulfilling with people that are as community minded, honorable and as fun to work with as you are."

England said she plans to stay in the area and would be interested in an administrative position.

"I'm not retiring," England said.

She noted that the EDC "needs some new blood."

"We appreciate what you have done and hate to see you go," said John Shoop, the board's chairman.

After the meeting, Shoop said England's announcement was not a total surprise. She had been thinking about leaving the EDC for some time.

A search committee to find a replacement for England was formed. Board member Wade Taveniere will serve as chairman. The committee will meet at 8:15 a.m. Friday, Aug. 15 at the commission office in Sebring.

Shoop said the board hopes to find a new executive director as soon as possible and bring the person to Sebring at least one month before England leaves.

In other business, the board directed England to get some quotes from other firms to do the annual audit of the Industrial Development Authority's books.

The NCT Group charged $7,400 to do the audit last year. The company is seeking an $1,100 increase for this year's audit.

Board member John Payne suggested taking a look at who else might be able to do the work, saying it is "getting out of hand."

"It's prudent just to check," Shoop said.

The EDC board and the Sebring Airport Authority will hold a joint meeting Sept. 4 at Sebring Regional Airport.

The EDC's annual banquet is set for Oct. 23 at the Quality Inn Conference Center in Sebring.

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